Former Chief Justice David Maraga now says that the Wednesday, June 25, protests will mark the beginning of Kenya’s third liberation.
In a statement ahead of the protests, Maraga said it marks a turning point in Kenya’s history, as young people across the country take to the streets to defend their constitution.
“Just like the first liberation - the fight against the British colonialists - this generation of young people, the GenZs, has paid the ultimate sacrifice with their blood.
“Just like the second liberation-the fight against One Party Rule and Ukoloni Mambo Leo- this generation has fought to protect the Constitution of Kenya, 2010,” he said.
The former Chief Justice said the protesters are marching in memory of those abducted, tortured, maimed, and killed, insisting that their message is clear: they will not be silenced.
He said the voices of a new generation echo loudly across Kenya, demanding change, demanding respect, and demanding a future.
He called out the use of violence by security forces, warning that attacks on peaceful protesters threaten national security.
Maraga also condemned the deployment of goons and alleged State-sponsored militias, calling it a road to State failure.
He also against the deployment of uniformed forces against peaceful demonstrators insisting that police are meant to protect citizens within Kenya’s borders, while the military serves to defend the nation from external threats.
“The use of the nation's uniformed forces to disrupt peaceful demonstrations is also unconstitutional. The fundamental duty of the police service is to protect the people within our borders, and the military exists to protect the people beyond our borders.
“Any deployment of uniformed forces against peaceful people is unlawful. If it happens, as it has in the past, the Commander in Chief must be held accountable.”
Maraga said Kenyans are tired of living under a regime they describe as “rogue” — one they accuse of consistently violating rights and shedding innocent blood.
He urged protesters to remain peaceful and obey the law.
Maraga also encouraged them to keep emergency contacts close, including those shared by the Law Society of Kenya.
“We stay committed to peace and justice,” the statement said.
“To resetting this country to the rule of law, restoring utu, and the value of human life.”
He added that as the youth continue their march, the rest of the country and the world watches closely.
